Dr. Michael Stroup’s Presentation at…

When Government Lobbies Itself: Why Texas Should Ban Taxpayer-Funded Lobbying

Texas local governments use taxpayer dollars to hire lobbyists to influence state legislation—creating conflicts of interest, distorting democratic accountability, and undermining the interests of Texas taxpayers. Key points: Taxpayer-funded lobbying expenditures more than doubled from the 85th to the 89th Legislature, now reaching as high as $111.5 million. Taxpayer-funded lobbyists consistently opposed legislation involving property...

‘Sparkle Beach Ken’ Is Too Kind To Gavin Newsom

The California governor correctly figures that if he stays on offense, his own dismal record will be ignored — even if that offense is odd. Being Gavin Newsom means never having to explain yourself  — being able to hurl accusations and nonsensical claims with nary a follow-up from the press. Newsom’s foray into the World...

Restoring Private Property Rights: Regulatory Takings

Municipal regulations like zoning ordinances can infringe on private property rights and distort the housing market. Key points: Private property rights are under threat from municipal zoning ordinances and design mandates. Texas law has failed to adequately protect property owners from regulatory takings. By closing the municipal loophole, Texas can be the national leader in...